Best things to do in Innsbruck

“Description Innsbruck's most famous landmark shines in the heart of the historic old town. The splendid alcove balcony gets its name from the 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles that adorn the roof. The building has reigned over medieval houses and shady arcades for over 500 years. It was built by Emperor Maximilian who very much enjoyed the view: from there he would look down over the colourful hustle and bustle of his city, watch jousting tournaments and be revered from below. The shining golden roof can be seen on entering the historic old town but it is also well worth taking a look up close. The structure below the roof is richly adorned with a wide variety of figures and images, including many curiosities. Bare facts and a love triangle An exposed backside sticks prominently out from the Golden Roof. Admittedly, it is only a few centimetres in size and it belongs to one of the many figures set below the roof. Why bare facts? This question remains unanswered and is one of the many mysteries that surround the landmark. Maybe the revenge of medieval craftsmen who weren't paid? We can only speculate. The front of the structure is decorated with a man and two wives: Emperor Maximilian is portrayed next to his wife of the time Bianca Maria Sforza. He didn't like her much, however, and that is why his first wife – Maria von Burgund – also looks out from the relief. Another eye-catcher: Small men with twisted limbs. They are morisco dancers, who were effectively the breakdancers of the Middle Ages. The Golden Roof is a must-see for anyone visiting Innsbruck. Come to the historic old town and see for yourself. You can't miss it. In the adjoining museum, you can immerse yourself in the time of Emperor Maximilian. Opening times Opening times May to September: Monday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm October to April: Tuesday to Sunday 10 am – 5 pm Closed in November”

“Towering high above Innsbruck on the wooded Bergisel Hill, the brand-new Bergisel Ski Jump is a sight to behold. The hill itself is a historic site, scene of the 1809 battles in which Andreas Hofer led some Tyrolean peasants against French and Bavarian forces in the Tyrolean War of Independence. The first ski jump was erected here in the year 1925. And in 1964 and 1976, the Innsbruck Ski Jump was venue of the Olympic Ski Jumping competitions. Reconstruction plans have been discussed widely. Finally, Iraqi-born and London-based star architect Zaha Hadid won the related architectural competition and designed the spectacular new ski jump. Construction works began in 2001 and have been completed in September 2002. Zaha Hadid designed what is already considered a tourist attraction that should be on the itinerary of every visitor to Innsbruck. The Tower stands 47 meters tall and provides spectacular views. The new facilities now can hold 28,000 spectators. Each year, the refurbished Bergisel Stadium plays host to the annual Four Hills Tournament in January and to a Summer Grand Prix Jumping Event. All Bergisel Stadium facilities, including gondola, elevator, panoramic café, and vantage spot on the jumping platform are open to visitors. From the stylish Restaurant there are uninterrupted panoramic views of the lofty surrounding peaks of Patscherkofel, Nordkette, Hohe Munde and Serles. As of May 2003, the visit to Innsbruck’s newest architectonic attraction is free with the „All Inclusive Innsbruck Card“. architect Zaha Hadid, 2001 - 2002 hybrid of specific sports site and public function (panoramic - restaurant and viewing platform) tower with foot, "head" and approach ramp combination of tower and bridge (91,60 m long; 48,35 m high) numerous international prizes regarded as "modern" symbol of Innsbruck Opening times Opening hours winter November - May: Wednesday - Monday 10.00 am - 5.00 pm closed on Tuesday 19 - 30 November closed Opening hours summer June - October: Monday - Sunday 9.00 am - 6.00 pm Attention: several closing days during the year (to be found on Hours of operation Bergisel )”

“Very beautiful view over the whole city of Innsbruck, lots of different mountains, and a variety of different valleys. Very easy to access, very spectacular rides to the top. Also a bikers, hikers and skiers paradise. ”

“One of the local favorites for rooftop bars. You stand on top of the town hall and enjoy anything from beer & wine to longdrinks or cocktails. The place is rather small and narrow, which is why I do not recommend this place to bigger groups.”

“Amazing view. Everyone should see it. Though I do recommend it just on the sunny days or at least when the mountain is not covered with clouds, otherwise you wont see anything. In winter on fridays an Igloo Party!”

“Take the elevator to the 12th floor to enjoy food and drinks either inside or out on a terrace. If you walk one level higher you can find a temporarily opened rooftop bar with a 360° view around the valley!”